Dr. Burnett: The Next Chapter

By: Basith Syed

After 11 years of dedication to students, families, and the Glenelg High School community, school counselor Dr. Steven Burnett is set for retirement at the end of the school year. Known for his supportive presence and commitment to helping students succeed, Burnett leaves behind a lasting impact on the school. ​

Burnett’s educational journey began at Frostburg State University, where he completed his undergraduate degree. He later earned his graduate degree from Western Maryland College (now McDaniel College) and completed postgraduate studies at Liberty University, where he earned his doctorate in Educational Leadership.


He explained that pursuing a doctorate was motivated by his desire to grow professionally and prepare for leadership opportunities in education. Over time, that advanced degree helped him move into administrative and supervisory roles.


Before entering education, Burnett worked in pharmaceutical sales for nearly 10 years. However, after being asked to do something he considered unethical, he chose to leave the field and pursue a more meaningful career. His experiences mentoring young adults through church work and a short time working in juvenile services inspired him to become a counselor.


Throughout his career, Burnett served in many roles. He worked as a behavioral intervention specialist, a personnel worker, assistant principal, acting principal, and later supervised school counseling programs for Washington County Public Schools. Eventually, he returned to what he enjoyed most working directly with students and joined Glenelg as a counselor.


Carrie Repole, student services secretary, described Burnett as someone who has built strong, meaningful connections throughout the Glenelg community, especially with students. 


“Dr. Burnett has a noticeably strong connection with his group of students,” Repole said. “He's very strong in his faith, so he's very connected to the kids who are faith based.” 


When reflecting on his time at Glenelg, Burnett called it the favorite part of his career.


“I like the students and their families. Everybody’s been great,” he said. “Just being able to really have an impact, get to know people, and work with everybody has been by far my favorite part of my career.” 


One of his favorite memories was a senior prank in which students built excitement around releasing live chickens into the school. Instead, they surprised everyone by taping pictures of chickens all over the building. He also said attending proms and seeing students dressed up and celebrating was always a highlight.


Over the years, Burnett says he has come to feel like a true part of the Glenelg community. Having worked with multiple generations of families, he has built relationships that extend far beyond the school walls. As he enters retirement, Burnett says he is excited for the next chapter. He plans to spend more time golfing, fishing, relaxing at his beach house, and enjoying time with family. He is especially looking forward to becoming a grandfather for the first time. Although he is stepping away from the school building, Burnett plans to stay active through community service as a nonprofit board president and church elder.


Burnett’s years of compassion, guidance, and dedication have made a difference in countless lives. Glenelg High School wishes him all the best in his retirement.